A Solo Traveller’s Guide To London

Some of the most delicious food in the world is served in London, including some authentic cuisines you can only get within this busy city. Many five-star restaurants take reservations, or drop-ins, if you’re strolling through the area and find yourself hungry. For those who want to enjoy an authentic fish and chips meal, the place that has become the undisputed top spot is Toff’s. It is known as one of London’s finest family-owned and run businesses, which many locals have tried to keep secret for quite some time. You’ve probably heard about the gastropubs as well, a few of the best being Anchor & Hope, Horseshoe, Railway Tavern, Hibiscus, and Cow. You will be sure to enjoy these classy eateries. If you are looking for the finest dining, London has several Michelin-star restaurants such as the three-starred Gordon Ramsey and Alain Ducasse at the Dorchester, the two-starred Sketch Lecture Room & Library and Le Gavroche, and the one-starred Galvin La Chappelle and The Goring Dining Room, just to name a few.
Hibiscus, 29 Maddox St, London, UK, +44 20 7629 2999
Gordon Ramsay Group, 539-547 Wandsworth Rd, London, UK, +44 20 7592 1360

You will be saying ‘off with her head!’ as soon as you walk through the doors of this tower. The Tower of London is a place that you will certainly want to visit along the River Thames. Rich with history and accompanied by a beautiful castle, you can take the Tower of London in a tour or go through the maze of towers, rooms, and vaults on your own. On the other hand, the iconic Big Ben is another must-see because of its grandeur; the fact that it is still running is amazing seeing that it was completed in 1859. It’s a tribute to good clock making. Take a trip inside, or just revel in the breath-taking clock from down below; it never ceases to impress anyone that visits. If you’re looking for somewhere to honour London’s history and learn more about it, the Churchill War Rooms are a tribute set up to honour some of the most well-known war heroes in London’s history. Whether you’re journeying through architecture or the storied history of London heroes, you’ll find much to impress you in the iconic sites of London, England.
The Tower of London, St Katharine’s & Wapping, London, UK, +44 844 482 7777
Churchill War Rooms, Clive Steps, King Charles Street, London, UK, +44 20 7930 6961

One of the neatest things in London is the public bike hire. Best known by the name Boris Bikes (Boris Johnson), this scheme gives everyone the opportunity to ride around the gorgeous city. Cycling through such a beautiful city can provide you with a whole new way to experience the area. It’s easy to get lost in the scenery; biking affords you the opportunity to see things you wouldn’t otherwise notice via bus or car. While you slip on your cycling bib shorts, consider taking a ride through one of the great parks, like Richmond Park or Regent’s Park. Each provides its own set of challenges for bikers, but one is just as breath-taking as the other.
Richmond Park, Richmond, Greater London, UK
Regent’s Park, Chester Rd, London, UK

With so much evidence of history throughout London, many museums are open to tell you the tales of the past. If you want to learn about the rich history of London, each museum has a unique story to share. With over two million years of human history exhibited, The British Museum provides every visitor with something new they can learn. Home to the Rosetta Stone and Egyptian Mummies, the museum receives thousands of visitors every year. The Natural History Museum welcomes one and all to take part in hundreds of interactive displays and exhibits. Some less-visited, and highly recommended, interactive displays and events include the After Hours Dino Snores (for grown-ups), Parasites Day, and Colour and Vision: Through the Eyes of Nature.
British Museum, Great Russell St, London, UK, +44 20 7323 8299
Natural History Museum, Cromwell Rd, London, UK, +44 20 7942 5000

With numerous stores to check out, there is something for everyone in the family to enjoy. Grab lunch and shop down many of the squares filled with high-end stores. Whether you are seeking out upmarket stores like Harrods or want to purchase something for your children (or yourself, we won’t judge) from Hamleys, there are plenty of luxury and designer shops to enjoy.
Harrods, 87-135 Brompton Rd, Knightsbridge, London, UK, +44 20 7730 1234
Hamleys, 188-196 Regent St, London, UK, +44 371 704 1977

The pubs in London are the most raved about in the country. With a wide selection of beer in bottles and on tap, you’re sure to find something you’ll enjoy. Pubs are a great gathering place in London: you can sit back, relax, and unwind while enjoying some trivia, laugh, and just be a part of the London scene. Get a little history and settle in between antiques of all types at The Ship Tavern. Or head to the place known as Charles Dickens’ haunt, the Lamb & Flag, providing ice cold drinks in addition to traditional pub cooking.
Ship Tavern, 12 Gate St, London, UK, +44 20 7405 1992
Lamb and Flag, 33, Rose St, London, UK, +44 20 7497 9504

If you’ve come to London seeking an out-of-this-world club experience, you’ve come to the right place. The Roof Gardens will take you to the roof for an open sky all-night experience. The Old Queen’s Head makes for an edgier experience; music ranges from top DJs to bands on the rise. Either venue, and a score of others, will have you dancing, and partying, the night through, enjoying an after-hours experience that only London can provide. Enjoy, and then enjoy some more; then, get ready for your next night in London, England. Where will it take you?
The Roof Gardens, 99 Kensington High St, Kensington, London, UK, +44 20 7937 7994
The Old Queen’s Head, 44 Essex Rd, London, UK, +44 20 7354 9993